Encoding–Retrieval Interactions

The encoding–retrieval paradigm is instantiated when two (or more) conditions are manipulated during study (or encoding) and two or more types of tests are used to assess retention (retrieval tests). This type of experiment permits answers to two fundamental questions: Do effects of an encoding manipulation that occur on one test generalize across other tests? When encoding and retrieval conditions match on some dimension, does better performance occur than when they mismatch (in line with principles of encoding specificity and transfer-appropriate processing)? The encoding–retrieval paradigm is essential to progress in understanding memory.